Q, please look back on the national matches and scoring scenes.
A, first regarding the scoring scene, when the ball was passed to player Mita and he was dribbling forward, I pictured a 4-on-2 situation in my mind. Also, before the match started, including the condition of the pitch, the team had discussed taking more long shots, so when Mita carried the ball that far, I was already imagining taking a shot. I am always aware of rebounds after shots, so by not giving up until the end and aiming carefully, luckily the ball fell right in front of me, so I just had to push it in.
Q, do you have any thoughts on scoring goals in three consecutive matches at the National Stadium, including the Levain Cup final of the 2021 season?
A, I believe that no matter which stadium it is, I must always give 100%, and I always want to score goals. I feel I have a very good affinity with the National Stadium, having scored in three consecutive matches there, and I would be happy if we have another match at the National Stadium.
Q: How do you feel about scoring 8 goals in the 2020 season, 9 goals in the 2021 season, and reaching 10 goals for the first time this season in the J1 League?
A, of course I am happy to have reached 10 goals, but I believe I need to improve every year as a player. I think it is a positive thing that my goal tally has increased with each passing season. I believe reaching 10 goals was important both for the team to climb higher in the standings and for me to move up in the scoring rankings.
Q, looking at the goal scoring rankings for this season, it is possible to consider the top scorer, isn't it?
A, looking at the current number of goals, I am among the top scorers, so being the top scorer is definitely within my sights and something I want to aim for. Of course, the teams of the players competing in the rankings still have matches left, but I am focused on finishing well, and by the end of the season, I want to be the player with the most goals.
Q, I think it would be amazing to become the top scorer in a position as a winger rather than as a center forward.
A, I think center forwards are closer to the goal and therefore have an easier time scoring, but I also cut inside from the wing and make sure to take shots when the opportunity arises, and sometimes, luckily, those shots go in. Of course, there are also goals that come from practicing exactly as I trained. While it is true that center forwards are in positions that make scoring easier, I believe that more than that, the goals are the result of me actively aiming for the goal and playing accordingly.
Q, looking forward to the 11th goal.
A, I will do my best to score.
Q: What is the factor that allows you to consistently score goals with 10 goals this season?
A, I believe there is, of course, a divine connection. I also think the results of my training are showing. Whether I start the match or come on as a substitute, I always play with the desire to leave visible results for the team, such as goals and assists. As a result, I have been able to reach 10 goals this season.
Q, I think the next Kashima game will be an important game for the team to move up in the rankings.
A, everyone on the team understands that the next match against Kashima will be an important game to move up in the standings. In the match against Kyoto, we were able to start with a good flow from the beginning and played a good game throughout the 90 minutes. We want to start just as well this time and achieve a good result, and we plan to spend this week preparing for that.
Q: Kashima changed their coach in the middle of this season, but I think there are both parts that still retain the essence of Kashima and parts that are trying to change. What aspects do you want to be mindful of while fighting?
A: Kashima has changed their coach, and I think there are some parts where their approach has slightly changed. However, more importantly, the key thing is whether they can stick to their own style. Opponents may have various methods and new styles, but above all, it is crucial that we do what we must do. If we fail to do that, victory will become distant. I believe it is important to do what we have to do, fight for the full 90 minutes, and aim for victory.
Q, this season has also reached 5 matches. Have you noticed any changes in your role or awareness within the soccer style that Coach Albert has been seeking, as you have played up until now?
A, I believe the role expected by the coach has not changed from the beginning of the season until now. However, the level expected has changed, and I think I am now able to meet a higher level than at the start of the season.
Q, there are games where you start in the starting lineup and games where you come on as a substitute. I think it is more difficult to come on as a substitute in a game.
A, of course, when coming on as a substitute, the intensity of the press and what is required are different from when you start the match, so I think it is difficult for players to come on midway. However, what needs to be done is already decided, so I focus on fulfilling those requirements and play with that in mind.
